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Summer might be a great time to relax, but that doesn't mean you should relax your standards ofÌýsustainability. Here are some zero waste activities and tips to keep in mind.

• Visit the farmers market on WednesdaysÌýfrom 4-8 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. to support local farmers and businesses and pick up fresh fruits, vegetables and more.
• Farmers markets are the perfect place to ditch your plastic grocery bags and try fresh and in-season fruits and vegetables.
• ±«²õ±ðÌýÌýto get around town,Ìýinstead of a car.
• If you can't get to theÌýfarmers market every week, consider the LongmontÌýSimply Bulk MarketÌýto buy everything you'll needÌýfor your picnics, barbeques, camping tripsÌýand more.

• Check outÌýÌýfor zero waste recipe ideas and trends.
• Summer is a great time to set up backyard composting. Check outÌýthis articleÌýby a fellow member of the zero waste team.
• Have your own zero waste picnic! Opt for reusable tupperware and silverware over single-use plastics.
• Plan a staycation.ÌýInstead of flying or driving, consider finding new attractions to visit around your town.Ìý
• Plan ahead with reusables and utensils for all the pit-stops you may make.Ìý
• Bring your own food to reduce packaging waste fromÌýfood you might purchase from a gas station or store.Ìý
• Mason jars are a summer staple! Bring someÌýalong to gather bulk food, make fresh squeezed lemonadeÌý´Ç°ùÌýstore food.

Zero waste activities

• Zero waste barbeques/grilling:
• Encourage your guests to bring reusable containers withÌýresealable lids to your cookout.
• Bring your own utensils or cups.
• Set up a compost area and recycling bin so friends and family can properly dispose of their waste.
• PlanÌýfood and appetizers around what items you already have in your kitchen;Ìýget creative with recipes!
• Zero waste day at the beach/reservoir/lake or tubing at the creek:
• Bring your own snacks in reusable containers, and reusable utensils.
• Clean up after yourself, and you can even pick up trash in the surrounding area.
• Pack a cooler.
• Take nothing, leave nothing.
• Use a reef-safe sunscreen.ÌýSome reef-safe sunscreen brands include:Ìý
• Thinksport
• Kokua Sun Care
• All Good
• Suntegrity
• Raw Elements
• Babo Botanicals
• Art of Sport
• And manyÌý
• Zero waste festivals/fairs:
• Bring a mason jar or reusable water bottle to refill.
• Bring a bandana to use as a reusable napkin.
• Bring foldable, resuable utensils.

• Leave no trace!Ìý
• Set up your own zero waste system on the campsiteÌýwithÌýÌý²¹²Ô»åÌý.
• Bring reusables, including aÌý. Investing in a portable grill is a sustainable way to have great meals while camping.
• Prepare a few bulk snacks that you can eat throughout the entire trip -ÌýÌý´Ç°ùÌýÌýare a great option!Ìý
• Opt forÌý.
• Non-reusable propane canisters can be recycled atÌý.
• Use any plastic bags that you must bring as pet waste bags on the trip.
• Consider borrowing or renting camping gear rather than buying new.
• If your camping gear is damaged or broken, try to repair it rather than throwing it away. Many local outdoor shops offer repair services.

Prep for move-in/move-out

• Keep these sustainable tips in mind:
• Wrap anything fragile in t-shirts or soft fabricÌýinstead of plastic wrap.
• Use biodegradable packing materials as much as possible.
• If you're moving to a new place or a new state, make sure to look up theÌýrecycling guidelines, which can vary by location.
• Limit your electronic waste.
• Look for Energy Star labeled products that use less energy.
• Choose LED bulbs over other varieties for lighting.
• Check out these articles for more specific information forÌýmove out off-campusÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýon-campus.